At Melbourne Girls Grammar, we know that early literacy is built around strong foundations of oral language.
Current Australian and global research is clear: early experiences with language and stories play a vital role in a child’s literacy development. According to the 2023 Australian Early Development Census (AEDC), children exposed to rich language environments at home show stronger literacy and cognitive skills once they start school. Similarly, the OECD’s Education and Skills report highlights that early literacy experiences are key predictors of later academic success, particularly for girls.
The good news is, one of the most powerful ways to boost your daughter’s early literacy journey is simply by oral conversations by reading together. Research from the Melbourne Graduate School of Education (MGSE) in 2022 found that children who are read to daily from infancy have significantly higher literacy outcomes in primary school. Reading stories and poetry, singing songs, rhyming games and even just chatting about the day encourages vocabulary development, narrative skills, and a love of language — the true cornerstones of literacy.
At MGGS, we 
believe deeply in nurturing these early connections. Our Early Learning Centre programs are shaped by the latest research into how young girls learn best. Guided by the Reggio Emilia approach, alongside the VELDYF, we focus on playful, language-rich environments that spark curiosity, creativity, language development and critical thinking. We encourage our families to mirror this at home, creating relaxed, joyful opportunities for language to thrive.
Importantly, early literacy at home should never feel like a race. In fact, research from the Australian Literacy Educators’ Association (ALEA) emphasises that pushing formal reading instruction too early can sometimes backfire, leading to frustration rather than confidence. The goal is not to produce early readers, but to foster a deep, lasting relationship with language. Children need time to explore sounds, rhythms, and meanings in a way that feels natural and empowering.
Girls, in particular, benefit when they feel confident and competent from the start. Our 130 years of experience in girls’ education show that a strong early literacy foundation supports not just reading and writing, but critical thinking, empathy, and self-expression — all essential skills for the future. As UNESCO’s 2023 Global Education Monitoring Report reminds us, early literacy isn’t just a school issue; it’s a community commitment.
At MGGS, we partner with families to build this foundation together. Through workshops, resources, and a shared love of stories, we ensure that every girl enters her school years ready to thrive. We know that when young girls see themselves as capable, curious learners from the beginning, they carry that confidence throughout their lives.
Early literacy at home is not about perfection — it’s about connection. Every story read, every conversation shared, every question answered helps your daughter build the skills she’ll use for a lifetime. Together, we’re laying the groundwork for bold beginnings and bright futures.
References:
Australian Government, Department of Education. (2021). Australian Early Development Census national report 2021. [Australian Early Development Census]. https://www.aedc.gov.au/resources/detail/2021-aedc-national-report
OECD. (2023). Education at a glance 2023: OECD indicators. https://www.oecd.org/education/education-at-a-glance/
McLean Davies, L., & Doecke, B. (2022). The power of reading aloud: Early literacy development and language acquisition. Melbourne Graduate School of Education.
Australian Literacy Educators’ Association. (2022). Early childhood literacy position statement. https://www.alea.edu.au/
UNESCO. (2023). Global education monitoring report 2023: Technology in education. https://www.unesco.org/gem-report/en
Support our Early Learning Centre by contributing to our 2025 Annual Giving Appeal – Building Their Future Together. Through your tax-deductible donation, you are ensuring that future generations of Grammarians benefit from our legacy of excellence.
This year, we focus on our youngest students. Our ELC has always led the way for the education of our youngest Grammarians. Our programs within the learning studios and in the broader ELC environment provide the foundation of learning. Harnessing the joy inherent in play, a child’s curiosity, creativity, and imagination are ignited, fuelling an enduring passion for learning in the later stages of school and life.
Help us invigorate our learning spaces with a donation to the Merton Hall Foundation Building Fund.